The third round of the Abu Dhabi Baja Challenge kicks off on Saturday in Zayed City in Al Dhafra

The third round of the second season of the Abu Dhabi Baja Challenge kick-starts on Saturday, 8 February, 2025, in Zayed City in the Al Dhafra region, organised by the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, in cooperation with the Emirates Motorsports Organization. A record number of 106 competitors representing 30 nationalities will participate in this round, including 32 Emirati drivers.

The Abu Dhabi Baja Challenge aims to enhance efforts to develop young talents in motorsports, and provide an opportunity for amateurs to compete with veteran and professional drivers across the region.

The Abu Dhabi Baja Challenge began as a community sports initiative in line with the goals of the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, and quickly attracted the interest of professional drivers from the Gulf Cooperation Council countries as well as from around the world.

The current round will feature 61 participants in the bike category, 11 on quads, 11 in cars, and 23 on buggies. The length of the third round’s track exceeds 100 km, and the competitors will cross the soft, golden sand dunes of the Al Dhafra desert, making it a unique experience. Competitors hail from Russia, China, Germany, Kuwait, Uzbekistan, Lithuania, India, Canada, Denmark, Ukraine, Saudi Arabia, Cyprus, Italy, New Zealand, France, Qatar, Jordan, South Africa, Scotland, Ireland, Spain, United Kingdom, United States, Belgium, Portugal, Austria, Egypt, Pakistan and Brazil.

Talal Mustafa AL Hashemi, Executive Director of Events Sector at Abu Dhabi Sports Council, emphasised the importance of organising the Abu Dhabi Baja Challenge, which brings together professional and amateur drivers in a rally that provides an opportunity for motorsport and speed enthusiasts to compete in a safe environment, while adhering to the highest safety standards.

AL Hashemi praised the large turnout in the Challenge’s third round, noting that this reflects the growing interest and broad base of motorsports competitors in the region. He indicated that this large number of participants also reflects the success of the Challenge in attracting drivers of different nationalities, which enhances its position as an important sporting event at the regional level.

He further stated: "By organising this event, we confirm our commitment to developing the skills of local drivers and motivating them to participate in major international events inside and outside the UAE."